Alteratives and depuratives, which are known in traditional
folk medicine as blood purifiers, are a very important class of herbs in botanical
medicine. These herbs generally act through the lymphatic, glandular and mucous
membrane systems, and to a lesser degree through the skin. Their primary action
is to favorably alter disordered metabolic and catabolic processes, especially
those associated with the break-down and elimination of metabolic waste. Their
related secondary action is to enhance better overall absorption and assimilation
of nutrients. Collectively these metabolic and catabolic activities serve to
balance and normalize overall physiological chemistry and thereby restore vital
health.

Here I will detail a few of my favorite alterative/depurative herbs, which
are Echinacea, Burdock, Wild Indigo, Dandelion and Turmeric, and I will list
others for further study.

Alteratives and depuratives are indicated in cases of retrograde metabolism,
which are constitutional disorders associated with tardy breakdown and excretion
of metabolic waste, deterioration of normally healthy tissues and slow reconstruction
of new tissues. These indications are sometimes associated with a condition
known as cachexia, which is a constitutional disorder attended with loss of
vitality and strength, loss of appetite, weight loss, and general debility,
usually during chronic disease. Alteratives and depuratives are also indicated
in a similar condition to cachexia known as dyscrasia, which was traditionally
described as a depraved state of the humors and a morbid condition, especially
one that involves imbalance of component elements. So called “wasting
diseases” like AIDS and cancer are examples of cachexia and dyscrasia.

Although Echinacea is stereotyped as an “immune system herb,”
it is also an excellent alterative and depurative and is especially indicated
in lymphatic and glandular swellings and what traditional folk medicine refers
to as “bad blood,” which includes conditions like measles, boils
and other skin eruptions, swollen lymph glands, and cold, bluish skin.

Another great herb in this category is Burdock, of which I use a 50/50 combination
of the root and the seed. Burdock is an excellent restorative cleanser/ detoxifier
for the liver and kidneys and is especially indicated in chronic cutaneous
lesions like eczema and psoriasis. Burdock also soothes and cleanses the lymphatic
vessels, serous membranes, and mucous membranes and is indicated in inflammation
and congestion of bronchial tissue.

Wild Indigo fresh root is another great alterative/depurative, but it must
be used with caution and in moderation because of its strong action. Wild Indigo
is useful in treating deep-seated, chronic and sub-acute inflammations and
infections, and any associated indolent, slow-healing wounds or ulcerations
– especially those with fetor and bluish edges, which indicate stagnant
blood. Wild Indigo is best taken in smaller doses and along with doses of Echinacea
and plenty of water.

One of my all time favorite alterative/depurative herbs is Dandelion, of which
I prefer using the whole fresh plant with its root, leaves and flowers. Dandelion
is an effective but gentle-acting detoxifier of the liver and kidneys, and
thereby is also useful in the treatment of various oily and eruptive conditions
of the skin, such as acne and sebaceous cysts. Dandelion is also a mild stimulant
of bowel elimination and is especially indicated in treating chronic constipation
of the elderly.

Turmeric rhizome, the spice which gives mustard and curry powders their bright
yellow color, is also an excellent liver alterative/depurative, which stimulates
the production and flow of liver bile. However, Turmeric tends to act more
strongly than Dandelion and, therefore, it should be used in somewhat smaller
doses. This herb/spice is indicated in congested liver and gallbladder, gallstones,
cholesterol problems and chronic constipation. Also, new scientific research
is justifying Turmeric’s uses in Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine as an
anti-inflammatory and as an adjunct treatment for topical and internal cancers.

Remember that a true alterative/depurative herb is one that not only cleanses
and detoxifies, but also facilitates proper nutrient assimilation and which
has a normalizing action on overall physiology.